Camping in Arizona
Posted: Saturday, August 29, 2009
by Teresa Ortiz
Freelance writer/Speaker
Everything fit; just barely, but it fit. Such a long trip – why so much stuff – who takes their bed on a camping trip, I thought.
In the backseat for most of the drive, I entertained myself by watching Spiderman II, I Robot, and Daredevil – twice. I pulled out the trusty laptop my daughter graciously allowed me to barrow. Unaware of its plan to thwart my every effort to keep up with my writing, I decided to write a few thoughts and title it, "Backseat Ranting".
This of course would never come to fruition because of the demons that lie in wait in the laptop. Though I remember many of the things I wrote, I won't share them now because it was one of those things that work best when you're in the moment – know what I mean? Besides, they have nothing to do with today's thoughts.
Although, I will tell you that writing in the back seat with heavy metal music blasting and the sound of what is thought to be singing, is hardly inspiration – it's irritation!
Along the way, we received a welcoming gift from a Los Angeles County representative; a gift certificate for $40.00, and an even bigger gift from a very generous Arizona State representative; a $120.00 gift certificate. However, stipulations require we exchange their certificate for our check within 30 days, or we could end up with an invitation to one of their fine resorts with around the clock security.
The trip home was less eventful, quite relaxing actually and up until today, I was anxiously awaiting the arrival of one of the members of our camping trip. He is a big boy, so I wasn't too worried about our being separated in Phoenix. Just figured he would pull into the driveway a day or two after we did. (He also took his jeep camping – imagine that.)
This brings me to today, one hour ago to be exact. I was enjoying the privilege of playing with the nifty buttons on the washer and dryer, and enjoying the beautiful shine on the floor that magically appeared each time I so elegantly moved across it, when suddenly it hit me:
My son didn't go camping in Arizona, HE MOVED TO ARIZONA!!!!!!!!!!!
Too funny Teresa! We as parents are adaptable if nothing else (my oldest, my daughter, got married last year and is living in London, England). Take care sister and blessings to you.Hi Edward. Man, and I'm complaining about Arizona? Sheesh! Congrats to your daughter!! Blessings to you too!
Great article, Sis. It's never easy to see our little ducklings move away, is it?Thanks, no. I guess its normal to have good days and panic days early on. thanks for your support
This was a great story. Didn't see the end coming. Hope your son enjoys his new home, and mom enjoys some quiet time.Best wishes,GrammyThanks Grammy, he is loving it there. Just needs to find a job asap! Say a prayer or he might be coming home if he can't pay his rent on October 1st. School started yesterday for him.
Oh, boy, empty nest....I have heard rumors.... enjoy this season and watch your a"baby bird" soar!Marijohaha! O, but there is no empty nest, one birdie flew home just before the other left :-)
Hi Teresa.He'll be okay. Arizona really isn't all that bad.Love ya'DianneThanks Dianne! Arizona, from what I saw was awesome! I loved it there. I am more concerned about him rooming with 4 other teens who are struggling to pay their rent. Yikes! J is having trouble finding a job - he is out on the hunt again today after school.
Humorous article! Thanks for sharing simple yet important parts of your life!SteveThanks Steve, I happy I could make you laugh. If I don't life and look on the lighter side of things, I would be a grumpy lady :-)
Hi Teresa, I am not a fan of camping, perhaps too reliant on some of the home comforts but i do love the great outdoors....just a shame i couldnt relocate the whole house every time I wanted to visit somewhere! JulianHi Julian, I hear you! who camps in a tent, I mean really? :-)
How I have missed you, MS. T! You are so funny! You know he is fine because you raised a great kid! Glad you are back home! Thanks for sharing your life!Hey girl! I have missed you too, glad you could laugh at my demise, you do that a lot you know :-) I talked to him yesterday, he is feeling the pressure of wanting to grow up - just figured he was going to walk into Phoenix and everyone was going to stumble over their feet running toward him to offer him a job! A big dose of humility and realty is hitting him this week. It breaks my heart, but it is part of the process. :-) But seriously he needs a job!
Are you still in panic mode, Teresa? Once you get used to it (and get moved to CA) I think you and Art will LOVE empty nest. You made me laugh! Good article, T.Hey girl! No empty nest, one come back just before the other left :-) Britt is moving to CA with us. It will be nice to be 5-6 hours away instead of 21! Gald you could laugh :-)
Denial isn't always a bad thing Teresa. Just keep telling yourself, "He's camping, he's camping!" Well written article. Hilarious actually. I can envision you in the back seat and sliding across your shiny floors!HI Brianna, I love your way of thinking! I'm gonna do it!! :-) Glad you enjoyed this little diddy. blessings to you! Teresa
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